The proposed route I-73 would take through South Carolina
MARION COUNTY -- The Marion County Chamber of Commerce, Greater Mullins Chamber of Commerce www.mullinschamber.com/ and Marion County Progress held the annual Marion County Economic Luncheon Monday.
The meeting focused on the impact the proposed Interstate 73 could have on the county.
Since 2000, Marion County has lost several industries, including Russell Stover. In April, the county led the state in the number of people out of work at 19 percent.
Marion Mayor Rodney Berry says I-73 could be a game-changer for the county. A recent study found I-73 will create at least four motels, five gas stations, three fast food restaurants, and two sit-down restaurants in Marion County alone. The leg of the highway that runs through Marion County is expected to be 20 miles long.
South Carolina Highway Commission chairman Danny Isaac says I-73 would be a key factor in luring major industries to Marion County. He says companies all over the world typically locate near a major interstate.
Local leaders say the highway would accelerate the development of the proposed South Atlantic International Logistic Center (SAILC) in western Marion County. The 3,000 acre site will be eleven miles from I-95 near Sellers and less than seven miles from the proposed I-73. When fully built, SAILC will contain 15 million square feet of industrial, commercial, and manufacturing space.
What would you like to see done to improve the employment situation in Marion County?
